Removal of two trees at Londonthorpe Lane, Grantham

“S26/0474 Proposal: Remove willow and ash trees to ground level (TPO-294).”

“Description of Site 1.1 An informal open space alongside Witham Brook, forming a traditional riparian corridor and a visually important green corridor extending for over 1km along London Road. Present since the 1800s, it forms an important part of the area’s local amenity. Description of proposal 2.1 The proposal is to remove the willow tree and the ash tree to ground level.”

“Representations Received 4.1 The Parish Council raises no objection to the removal of these trees, but requests replacement planting with species more suitable for the area. Evaluation Both trees are considered to be in terminal decline, with leaf cover below 10%. Their current physiological condition is such that their contribution to public amenity is substantially diminished and their longer-term retention is not considered reasonable in arboricultural terms.”

“Conclusion 8.1 Having regard to the above considerations, it is concluded that the proposed tree works are justified, appropriate in arboricultural terms, and capable of securing management and safety benefits while preserving the wider function of the green corridor.”

“Proposal: Remove willow and ash trees to ground level (TPO-294) Location: Londonthorpe Lane, Grantham, NG31 9FD Recommendation: To authorise the Assistant Director – Planning & Growth to GRANT Consent, subject to conditions…”

“It was proposed, seconded and AGREED to authorise the Assistant Director – Planning & Growth to grant consent, subject to conditions:”

“Tree work standards: All tree works authorised by this consent shall be carried out in accordance with BS 3998:2010 Tree Work – Recommendations and the European Arboricultural Standards Tree Pruning 2024.”

“Replacement tree planting: Before the permitted works are carried out, full details and specifications for two replacement trees shall be submitted to the Local Planning Authority. The replacement trees shall replace the removed ash and willow trees and shall be specimens of one or more of the following acceptable species or genera: Quercus coccinea (oak), Metasequoia glyptostroboides (dawn redwood), Liquidambar styraciflua (sweetgum), Taxodium distichum (swamp cypress),…”